North Myrtle Beach is a popular wedding destination each year. We welcome guests all year long who are visiting the area to “tie the knot” near the beach.
Along with the beautiful and spacious beaches, our city has a variety of award winning shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This is why North Myrtle Beach has become such a popular location for destination weddings. Young couples looking to tie the knot will have several North Myrtle Beach wedding chapels to choose from when plan their special day.
Little River, South Carolina is home to the annual Blue Crab Festival that will be celebrating its 37th year this May. Located on the Historic Little River Waterfront, this festival hosts about 50,000 people every year and provides local seafood, live music, and fun for the entire family.
North Myrtle Beach enjoys a 60 mile stretch of gorgeous coast and beaches. This feature makes it extremely attractive for our water-loving guests. Families, retirees and spring breakers alike flock to North Myrtle Beach to enjoy the charms of the beach.
If you enjoy the water, there is no shortage of activities available for you to enjoy. You can sunbathe, swim, fish, parasail and embark on a casino cruise or nature-watching tour from the shore. There are numerous ways to enjoy the water, with a host of companies offering excursions, from dolphin-watching to deep-sea fishing charters. If you are someone who wants to enjoy these activities on your own terms (and schedule), you can take advantage of a number of options for boat rentals in North Myrtle Beach, and the surrounding areas.
Whether you’re looking to trawl the shoreline, chase the big fish in the deep sea, or just tool around and explore, there’s a boat rental that’s right for you. The following rental companies are great sources for boat rentals in North Myrtle Beach (and beyond):
A relaxing beach vacation can really rejuvenate your mind and body – especially if you add in a great day at the spa. North Myrtle Beach spas offer Pilates, rituals to center mind and body, and soothing massages – just to name a few.
Tranquil settings, warm bathing rituals which include foot reflexology and lava shell massages are all part of the aim to recenter guests. Day packages give clients options like massage, facials and pedicures or a sugar glow and couple’s retreat in a hydrotherapy tub for two. Pick whatever sounds decadent to you. Body treatments with luscious coconut lotions and sugar scrubs will leave you glowingly soft all over. The infrared sauna allows guests to experience lowered blood pressure, detoxification and even pain relief.
Couples looking to reconnect and enjoy a day together can really benefit from a visit to this North Myrtle Beach Spa. This 5-star rated spa is very popular, so advanced booking is recommended. Come in for the ‘Prince and Princess Package’. For her – a 45-minute massage and facial. For him – a 75-minute massage and visit to the relaxation room. There are multiple packages with different options to suit your individual preferences. Facial peels, body polishes and mud massages are some of the treatments offered to guests. Try the Kansa Wand Facial. The Chinese and Ayurvedic facial energizes and heals your delicate facial skin. Clay and seaweed wraps, eyelash perm and tints, and facial cupping will have you feeling brand new and looking great when you leave the spa.
Find your rhythm at the Jasmine Spa located inside McCann Chiropractic. Craniosacral therapy helps with the mobility of the nervous system, tissue and bones of the cranial area. Gentle hand therapy will allow the fluids of this system to be unrestricted. This eases tension and gives a sense of overall peace to the client. This practice helps with migraines, menopausal symptoms and GI distress.
The Jasmine Signature facial uses essential oils and hot stones to restore energy and beauty to skin. The skin feels revitalized and regenerated after a treatment. Cerasome oxygen is used in the Oxygen Restore facial, which helps tired, dull skin. Perflourdecaline and Thioyine also help to give skin a much needed energy boost during this energizing facial.
Here, high-quality spa services and pharmaceutical-grade products are designed to give clients the best spa experience possible. Come and enjoy honey and lavender salt scrubs, infrared sauna with Swedish massage, paraffin treatments and more. Butter-Rum back facials make sure your back is cleansed and beautiful – perfect for swimwear. Try the Trinity treatment to help heal skin laxity, sun damage and texture issues.
Kids can get in on the fun, too. Bring children 12 and under in to enjoy The Little Princess or The Little Prince – a chocolate sundae mask. Get a lollipop pedicure or manicure (complete with lollipop.) Children can also learn how to take care of their skin.
Of course, there are massages, traditional treatments and even a boutique to stroll through. Make-up, nail and bridal packages are available as well as gift-certificates. They even do hair treatments. Highlights, low-lights and cuts as well as a variety of other options are available here at this full-service day spa.
Be welcomed into the serene atmosphere of this North Myrtle Beach spa with calming music and soothing aromatherapy fragrance filling the air. Stay for the day and enjoy the Essential Escape Package. Relax with a 1-hour Swedish massage, 1-hour facial, a mani-pedi, professional make-up application and a shampoo and style.
Other services include: Brazilian waxes, bikini waxes, shellac manicures, and massages. The VIP spa pedicure includes hot towels, callus elimination, lower leg and foot massage, moisturizing mask and polish. Relax with a Swedish, deep-tissue or combo massage or a couple’s massage. A reflexology massage will boost the immune system and detoxify the body. It also feels fantastic.
Women wanting younger skin with clear pores and fine lines removed will love the Green Peel at the Kiva Spa. Featured on The Drs television show, this herbal peel helps to heal damaged skin. Over a 5-day period women will see a noticeable difference in their skin. Clients also enjoy the Kiva Signature Facial with micro-dermabrasion and LED light therapy.
Deep tissue, hot stone therapy and pregnancy massages help visitors to relax and release tension. The boutique setting in the Kingston Plantation is beautiful and peaceful.
Enjoy professional Chinese Therapeutic Massage here. The Ashiatsu massage is performed by specialist who use parallel bars as they stroll over your back. The therapists are highly trained to use the right amount of weight and gravitational force to ease tensions on your body. Of course, there are also deep-tissue, Thai, and reflexology massages, too.
The Lomi Lomi Massage and Body Scrub and Vichy Shower is total body relaxation and rejuvenation. The body scrub gently exfoliates dead skin cells and energizes new cells underneath. The massage is performed in tandem with a hot shower so that the heat of the water works with the massaging action for the ultimate in tension release. You will leave feeling energized, cleansed and relaxed.
Each day spa offers their own specialty services and individual brands. Choose the North Myrtle Beach spa that has exactly what you are in need of, whether it be a full day spa experience or a mani-pedi before a night out. A spa day is the perfect addition to a great North Myrtle Beach vacation.
We invite guests to enjoy gorgeous sands, beautiful blue-green waters and plenty of sunrises. When you have had your fill of the beach, there is still plenty to do. Visit Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach for fantastic dining, shopping and entertainment. Stroll from shop-to-shop as you take in the sights of the Intracoastal Waterway. There are so many things to do here that it is a good idea to spend the whole day exploring the center! Here are some suggested places to visit:
Explore Barefoot Landing
Bud ‘n Belle Bath and Body Care
Photo credit: Bud ‘n Belle Bath and Body Care
When you step inside this shop luscious fragrances will surround you. Homemade lotions, wax melts, and bath bombs and more are made with love and all natural ingredients. Feel the moisturizing difference in the sugar scrubs. Slather on body butters in coconut lime or ripe raspberry smells for all-day softness. There are products for the home as well. Try the candles made with essential oils for great smells and overall wellness.
Do you love Christmas year-round? The Christmas Mouse is the shop for you. Step inside and up the magnificent staircase. Take in the Egyptian Glass tree. It’s stunning. Peruse the shop for unique ornaments and gifts that can’t be found anywhere else. Find ornaments for baby’s 1st Christmas, nautical ornaments, and seashell ornaments. Collectibles like Demdaco Willow Tree and Department 56 Snowbabies can be found here, too.
Did you forget the sunscreen? You can find it here, along with plenty of other items like jams, snacks, souvenirs, shirts and candy. On hot days, pull a RC Cola from the ice-filled cooler and enjoy it. The store has the feel of an old-time general store with all of the items you need for your vacation.
All of the shopping is sure to leave you hungry. You don’t have to get in your car and drive to a restaurant to eat. There are plenty of great food options surrounding you here at Barefoot Landing. Seafood, burgers and pizza as well as plenty of ice cream will satisfy your cravings and energize you for more shopping.
Flying Fish Public Market and Grill
Photo: TripAdvisor
Find the freshest fish and seafood, available for dine-in on the waterfront or to take home and enjoy at this restaurant and seafood market. There is a delicious raw bar with ocean-fresh oysters and sushi. Plenty of low-country favorites like shrimp and grits and crab cakes will make your taste-buds sing. Delicacies like lobster ravioli with squid ink or tuna poke salad are perfect for adventurous eaters. Be sure to take some fresh fish home for the grill, too.
Casual elegance surrounds you here. Wood-fired shrimp linguine, rib eye with garlic mashed potatoes, and pork chops with barbecue seasonings have that hint of smokey goodness. Prime rib, Atlantic salmon or filet Mignon are elegantly plated and paired with great wines. Eat as you overlook the waterway or slide into Sharky’s bar for camaraderie and drinks.
Do you want to dine in a casual setting where t-shirts and flip-flops are perfect attire? Stroll on in for wings in a variety of flavors and heats. There are sandwiches, salads and plenty of cold beer waiting too. 33 made from scratch sauces will coat your wings in hot, sweet or spicy flavors. Blue Cheese burgers and other specialties will fill those big appetites.
Now that you and your shopping bags are full, how about a little entertainment or a nightcap? Whether you want family entertainment or some adult time, there is something for everyone here – even when the sun goes down.
Step inside this #1 rated venue to see performances by The Four Tops, The Oakridge Boys and The Temptations. This family-friendly theater has shows that rival Vegas and New York. Comedy shows, audience participation and Christmas extravaganzas keep visitors coming back year-after-year.
Kids of all ages will thrill to see alligators – lots of alligators- in one of the largest reptile facilities in the world. 15 acres of fun with over 200 species of animals will keep everyone in your group looking and learning. Flamingos, Galapagos Tortoises, iguanas, snakes and more are presented in live shows and feedings. The audience can take pictures, touch some of the animals and learn about these fascinating creatures.
Adults can sip drinks and indulge in loud, live music at The House of Blues. For those who want to party, the private Foundation Room offers custom-tailored experiences and exotic decors. Throughout the year there are so many concerts and events. The stage is ever-changing and never boring.
Whether you come for family time, a couple’s retreat, or a weekend with the boys – the shops, restaurants and entertainment venues offered in this one area will keep you busy and happy.
North Myrtle Beach is a fun and interesting area any time of the year. It is also home to a broad selection of seafood restaurants. If you have just booked a vacation rental and are wondering where to find the best sushi North Myrtle Beach can offer, you should consider the following restaurants:
As you know, North Myrtle Beach is a great vacation spot regardless of the time of year you visit. Fortunately, if you are a sports bar fan, you will find there are many establishments of this type from which to choose in our great beach town! If you are staying in one of our vacation rentals and want to visit the best sports bars North Myrtle Beach has to offer, you should consider those listed below:
Located at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, Bully’s Pub and Grill is a great choice for vacationers looking for an exciting atmosphere in which to eat, drink, socialize, and celebrate. A large waterside deck, 32 draft beers, full lunch and dinner menu featuring steak, seafood, chicken, salads, and sandwiches, and award-winning service all await visitors at this high-end sports bar establishment. Featuring a seemingly endless number of TVs, as well as dartboards, pool tables, and bowling lanes, Bully’s definitely has it all.
Oscar’s Food and Spirits
Photo credit: oscarsnmb.com
A favorite in North Myrtle Beach for over 25 years, Oscar’s Food and Spirits on Route 17 is a great hangout for anyone who enjoys delicious fare, tasty cocktails and a wide variety of beer on tap. A big hit among Pittsburgh Steelers fans, this hangout features a great menu that includes salads, melts, chicken, burgers, wings, pizza, fries, potato skins, quesadillas, and nachos and dip. Other favorites include fish and chips, Pittsburgh-style sandwiches garnished with tomato, fries and coleslaw, and specialty plates created by Oscar’s chef. More than 90 TVs are found in this establishment, as well as dart boards, pool tables and video games, making it the perfect sports bar for big games and exciting celebrations.
Warning to our friends from Maryland & Ohio: you’ll find lots of Steelers fans here!
Vacationers who enjoy watching games in a laid back, local sports bar environment should definitely visit Flynn’s Irish Tavern. This classic, red-brick, downtown establishment is a terrific hangout for those who prefer a full menu of traditional Irish fare, such as shepherd’s pie or bangers and mash. The menu also features American dishes, including grilled pork chops and blackened salmon, as well as a full range of Irish and American cocktails and beers. When temperatures are pleasant, patrons can enjoy dining on the tavern’s expansive outdoor deck, which has its own televisions, a bandstand, dart games and a full bar. Conveniently located on Main Street, this establishment is ideal for those searching for a low-key, friendly tavern.
Overtime Sports Cafe
Photo credit: www.overtimesportscafe.com
One of North Myrtle Beach’s largest sports bars, the word “Cafe” hardly describes this 15,000-foot, two-level complex. Featuring approximately 155 televisions, including three, 60–inch flat screens and a 12-foot video wall, there are no bad seats in the house. Adjacent to the bar and restaurant are a museum filled with sports memorabilia, an arcade room featuring a wide variety of games, and three pool tables. This huge facility has a full bar in its center where a vast selection of imported, domestic and draft beers can be ordered. Mixed drinks and wine are available as well, and the menu boasts a wide variety of appetizers, bar snacks, burgers, sandwiches, wings, nachos and soups. Located directly on Route 17, it is convenient to virtually all vacation rentals.
Also located on Route 17 in North Myrtle Beach is the Upper Deck Sports Bar. This establishment is a classic American grill featuring traditional favorites, such as meatloaf and mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese and other pasta dishes, steaks, and classic bar snacks. This quaint, casual sports bar has multiple televisions, dart boards, a pool table and video games. The Upper Deck offers more drink choices than most similar-sized sports bars in the area and is known for super fast and friendly service. A nice place to relax and unwind, the Upper Deck is a great choice for those looking for a classic, American sports bar with a friendly atmosphere.
This bar is a favorite among vacationers and locals alike, and has all the classic features of a sports bar, but in a diner-like atmosphere. Filled with televisions and sports memorabilia, the Clubhouse is renowned for its homemade onion rings, sweet potato fries, chicken wings and fireball shots. A full-service menu is offered from lunchtime until late night, and a wide selection of domestic, imported and draft beers are available until closing. This unpretentious, neighborhood establishment is located on Route 17 and welcomes large parties and multi-family groups any time of the year.
The Grand Strand is home to great restaurants and bars, but the establishments listed above are some of the best sports bars North Myrtle Beach has to offer. Anyone staying in a vacation rental in this area should definitely check out some of these great pubs and taverns before they go home.
Are you headed to South Carolina for vacation? Are you going to be in the North Myrtle Beach area? Or even better, do you live in that beautiful area? North Myrtle Beach has many things to offer our guests and residents. Great weather, wonderful restaurants and lots of fun things to do.
One of the family fun activities is mini golf and North Myrtle Beach has some of the best places to play. Each one has something different to offer. From Dinosaurs, to pirates, to a trip to Hawaii, there are so many different and unique places to play. So gather the family and get ready for some fun at North Myrtle Beach mini golf courses.
Lost Treasure Golf
Photo credit: losttreasuregolf.com
This location offers two fun courses to play. The first is Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure. The theme is centered around Professor Hacker, a noted explorer who led two expeditions to the coast of South America in the 1920’s. On his quest for Ancient gold and diamond minds, he discovered an old mining train built during the first world war. Here you board a train that will take you to the first hole at the top of a mountain and you play your way down. The train ride can be dependent on weather conditions. Your Adventure awaits.
The second on is Professor Hacker’s Dinosaur Adventure. Professor Hacker was not only an explorer but also a archaeologist, anthropologist, paleontologist, and part-time taxidermist from the University of Chicago. As the story goes he had a love of hot air balloons. This adventure started when Professor Hacker and a friend took flight and was blown off course and crash landed in a canyon. They soon learned that the area was inhabited by Dinosaurs and sent for help. The found the ship that was supposed to rescue them beached on the rocks. Start your adventure while passing streams and waterfalls. Along the way you will encounter Dinosaurs, hot air balloons, and an 85 foot Steamship. Both courses are 18 holes of fun and adventure. They even allow you to play through or on top of the Steamship.
Paradise Adventure Golf
Photo credit: paradiseadventuregolf.com
Mutiny Bay is a huge 36 hole, completely outdoor course surrounded by tropical landscape, rushing waterfalls, and blue Caribbean waters. If you are a Pirate enthusiast, this one is for you. Each hole provides interesting information about pirates, their lifestyle, and history. The highlight of this course is a huge pirate ship. While playing you actually get to board the ship to play a couple of the holes that are located on the ship. If 36 holes is a bit too much there are two separate 18 hole courses you can play individually. The 18 hole Barbados Course features waterfalls, pirate caves and hidden treasure. There is also a spinner game to add extra fun and entertainment to your game. This course is Handicap accessible and stroller friendly so bring the whole family. The 18 hole Port Royal Course brings to life exciting Pirate battles with special effects. And you are right in the middle of the action at this North Myrtle Beach mini golf course.
Mayday Golf
Photo credit: http://maydaygolf.com/
Mayday Mountain offers 18 challenging holes as you walk through a lush and misty landscape. For you aviation enthusiasts it also features a Lockheed PV-2 Harpoon airplane and a Bell Huey Rescue helicopter as you make your way up the mountain. The Snack Shack offers cold drinks, ice cream and more. Relax on the shaded deck to take a break from the heat.
Hawaiian Rumble Mini Golf
Photo credit: http://hawaiianrumbleminigolf.com/
Feel like you just landed in the Hawaiian islands as you play this #1 rated, 18 hole mini golf course. listen to Hawaiian music as you wonder through the tropical gardens. And to top it off there is a 40 foot volcano in the middle of it all. In addition to miniature golf, they now have baseball and softball batting cages. There is also a picnic area, subway, pizza, ice-cream and more. Spend the day and enjoy everything they have to offer. Both the Miniature golf and batting cages are open year around.
Paradise Adventure Golf
Photo credit: paradiseadventuregolf.com
Here you can choose between two unique and exciting courses, or play all 36 holes. Playing Pele’s Revenge, you will wonder through a lush tropical landscape around the bottom of 50 foot active Volcano. It also offers a Mischief Spinner game to make your golf game even more interesting. Be aware that Molten Mountain is an angry volcano that erupts into a fiery, smoke filled explosion every 30 minutes. Pele’s Revenge is Handicap accessible and stroller friendly. Lava Louie’s is one of the most unique and challenging courses. As you are guided along a path inside the active volcano you will experience Lava pools, smoke stacks, and tribal artifacts. This course is indoors and temperature controlled. Both courses feature interesting facts about Volcanos and mythology. Come enjoy this truly unique miniature golf experience. There is also a snack shack offering soft drinks, ice cream and adult beverages. And don’t forget the gift shop to pick up something to remember your fun filled day.
The Black Pearl
Photo credit: tripadvisor.com
This Pirate themed 18 hole course features a pirate ship on the last hole. Wonder the boardwalks and hear the waterfalls as you enjoy your game. The black pearl also has a great Ice cream shop. After your game of Mini golf enjoy some time in the 80 game arcade. Truly something for everyone.
Grab the family and get ready for days of fun at North Myrtle Beach Mini golf courses!
When visiting North Myrtle Beach, you will surely have a craving for some great Italian food. Below, we will discuss some of the top North Myrtle Beach Italian Restaurants, where you will find your choice of pasta, meat, dessert and more. Your mouth will water just reading about these dining establishments, so sit back and get ready to read about the top Italian restaurants in the area.
Umberto’s
Photo credit: umbertos.com
A quaint trattoria in North Myrtle Beach, Umberto’s is a great spot to enjoy a true Italian Family Style meal. Each dish is fresh and flavorful, prepared from the finest ingredients. The menu includes an extensive selection of veal, chicken, pasta, steaks, chops, seafood, and house specials. Save room for dessert. The fresh Italian treats will knock your socks off. The menu is vegetarian-friendly and includes vegan menus, so there is something for everyone at Umberto’s.
Castano’s Italian Steakhouse
Photo credit: castanosrestaurant.com
Those looking for an Italian Steakhouse will be delighted with Castano’s. With a casually elegant dining style, this establishment offers steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes. Whether you choose to enjoy lasagna, lamb chops, or anything in between, you certainly will not be disappointed. Enjoy live music while you eat, and watch as the owner himself prepares dishes tableside. You can dine with a large group of friends and family, or enjoy an intimate dinner for two.
Benito’s Brick Oven Pizza & Pasta
Photo credit: benitosnmb.com
Anyone in North Myrtle Beach looking for a more casually laid-back restaurant should try Benito’s Brick Oven Pizza & Pasta. The menu includes appetizers such as calamari and mussels marinara. For the main entree, choose from brick oven pizza, or Italian classics including lasagna, Sausage Contadina, and Veal Scaloppini. You’ll feel as if you are sitting in a restaurant that is right in the City of Rome.
Villa Tuscanna
Photo credit: tripadvisor.com
When you are looking for an Italian Restaurant that lets you feel right at home, head straight for Villa Tuscanna. This Mediterranean style establishment is family owned, and everything on the menu is homemade. You’ll get the perfect taste of Italy with fresh pasta made from scratch and Italian specialties that you won’t find anywhere else. Famous for their escargot, Veal, Grouper Florentine, Filet & Lobster, Lamb Osso Bucco and more, the owner prepares recipes that come from Milan, Bologna. Dining at Villa Tuscana is a true Italian delight that everyone should enjoy.
Bistro 90
Photo credit: bistro90.com
Located just a few minutes from North Myrtle Beach in Longs, Bistro 90 has excellent offerings for Italian cuisine. Rated highly by locals in the North Myrtle Beach area, you can enjoy steaks, fresh seafood, pastas and an excellent wine selection. Serving dry-cut and aged USDA steaks, Bistro 90 has an eye for quality and sells the top cuts of steak (only 4% of steaks meet this standard). You can enjoy all of these dishes alongside pizza and other traditional dishes.
Midtown Bistro
Photo credit: Midtown Bistro
Those looking for a trendy yet quaint restaurant should try Midtown Bistro. With truly unique menu selections, such as Surf or Turf Alfredo, Eggplant Flat Bread, and Seafood Pomodoro, Midtown Bistro is the perfect place to enjoy Italian favorites. The relaxed restaurant is the only bistro in North Myrtle Beach, so you are sure to have a unique experience. The food is flavorful and basic, and daily specials are offered. The only problem anyone will have here is deciding which delicious menu item to order.
Chianti South
Photo credit: 10best.com
When the time comes to indulge in a fine dining experience, try Chianti South. With beautiful views and an exceptional staff, it is an experience you don’t want to miss. With mouthwatering selections including hot or cold appetizers, pasta, seafood, and meats, the dishes are prepared with the freshest of ingredients. Try the Homemade Manicotti, Zuppa Di Pesce Con Linguine, or New York Cut Sirloin Steak and don’t forget to save room for dessert. Sicilian Style Cannoli and Tartufo are just a few of the sweets to choose from as the perfect ending to your meal.
Benny Rappa’s Trattoria
Photo credit: bennyrappas.com
For an authentic Italian dining experience, you can’t go wrong with Benny Rappa’s Trattoria. This restaurant is a local favorite offering recipes that have been passed down through generations of family members. The establishment is proud to offer both Northern and Southern Italian cuisine. Come in to find the daily menu written on the chalkboard on a daily basis. Enjoy eggplant parmigiana, lobster ravioli, or clams and mussels for one of the best Italian meals you will ever enjoy. Owned by Benny Rappa and his wife, Michele, the restaurant gives back to local charities in the community. You’ll feel like you are part of an Italian family at this trattoria. An extensive wine list adds to the excellent experience.
Nothing is more wonderful than North Myrtle Beach Italian Restaurants. Whether you are a local or are visiting the area, you’ll want to enjoy dinner at one of the fine Italian establishments. The experience is like no other. The only trouble you will have is deciding which of these restaurants is your favorite!
If you are interested in sea turtles, there are several places to see the Loggerhead Sea Turtle in North Myrtle Beach. The most common of the North Myrtle Beach sea turtles is the Loggerhead, which is the most abundant marine turtle species. Loggerheads are named for their large heads and powerful jaw muscles that are used to eat hard-shelled prey. These turtles have an average life span of 50 years and can grow to be more than three feet long and weigh around 230 pounds. Unfortunately this species is on the endangered species list due to the loss of nesting areas, food sources, and pollution levels rising in the ocean. The loggerhead sea turtles are not as likely to be hunted for their meat or shells as other sea turtles. Instead their declining numbers are due to being accidentally caught in fishing nets since their habitat coincides with the location of many fisheries.
Our Local Advocacy Groups
Between May 1st and the middle of August the North Myrtle Beach Sea Turtle Patrol starts at sunrise and walks the beach marking the potential nesting sites of the North Myrtle Beach sea turtles. The hatchlings will emerge 45-65 days after the eggs are laid. Four days after the hatchlings have emerged the patrol is allowed to evaluate the nests. They are looking to see how many turtles hatched and how many eggs are left unhatched in the nest. The patrol is authorized by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources to conduct their research and conservation activities in regards to the North Myrtle Beach sea turtles. The public is invited to come out and observe the process.
A Recent Sea Turtle Hatch
On October 3, 2017 the last sea turtle emerged from its nest and was caught on camera by the patrol. This particular nest had 117 eggs and there were more than 5221 nests reported in South Carolina this season according to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Marine Turtle Conservation Program.
As exciting as it may be, you need to remember that it is unlawful to disturb the sea turtles nests and the hatchlings as they emerge from the nest. Hatchlings are very vulnerable while emerging from their nests and can become disoriented very quickly. Even taking a picture with a flash can cause them to veer off-course. It is good to remember that they are wild animals and as such are not used to interactions with people.
Make Sure To View Turtles Safely
Here are some tips to observe the sea turtle hatchlings safely. Do not sit or stand on the dunes since this is where the sea turtle hatchlings will be emerging from their nests. Give the sea turtle hatchlings plenty of space and do not approach them. Do not handle the sea turtle hatchlings or pick them up. Do not help to guide the sea turtle hatchlings to the ocean. Do not shine any lights on or around the sea turtle hatchlings, this can cause them to become disoriented and lose their way. Do not turn your cell phone on since it can make noise during the start up process and startle the sea turtle hatchlings. Do not take any pictures of the sea turtle hatchlings since flash photography can harm them. Disturbing the sea turtle hatchlings is against the law and can result in causing them harm. Remember that you are here simply as an observer. It is important that the sea turtle hatchlings make the trek to the ocean on their own. They are learning survival skills that will be necessary for them while living in the ocean.
It is an extraordinary sight to watch sea turtles emerge from their nests and start their journey in life. North Myrtle Beach is a wonderful place to observe this event. Just remember that there are some simple rules to follow so that this great species can continue to exist and thrive in the wild.
